The City of Marion has initiated the bidding process for two critical aspects of the comprehensive overhaul of its water and sewer system. This major infrastructure project, funded through an agreement between the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) and the city, aims to address the persistent issues that have plagued the system for years, including frequent outages and severe operational problems. The project was greenlit last year following a series of outages and system failures that led ADEM to place Marion under a consent order, prompting collaboration on a multi-million dollar plan to replace the outdated infrastructure.
The first bidding process pertains to the “Marion DWSRF Critical Needs Water Infrastructure Improvements Project-Phase 1.” Contractors are invited to submit bids by June 18, 2024, for work that includes performing video inspections, capacity tests, and water sample collections for chemical analysis at the Grede Well, the Chicken House Well, and the MMI Well. These inspections are crucial for assessing the current condition and operational capacity of these wells, which are integral to Marion’s water supply.
The second bidding process involves the “Marion Water Treatment Plant Upgrades Project.” This project includes significant upgrades such as chemical feed room modifications, raw and finish water meter replacements, installation of flash mixers and flocculators, sludge removal equipment installation, filter media replacement, as well as demolition, painting, door, and roof replacements. The deadline for these bids is June 28, 2024, with bid openings scheduled for the same day.
The overhaul project follows a turbulent period marked by severe water issues, including outages, discoloration, and off smells, particularly during the winter months. In January, Marion City Council held a special session to address these issues, where Mayor Dexter Hinton apologized to citizens and outlined the city’s plans to use American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for immediate and long-term repairs.
The public is encouraged to review the bid specifications and contract documents available at Marion City Hall and the offices of Utility Engineering Consultants, LLC. The city has stipulated that time is of the essence for these projects, with strict adherence to contract timelines and potential liquidated damages for delays. Federal guidelines associated with the funding sources must also be met by the city and its contractors.
